Published on: 22 August 2019
Care and comfort have been improved for some of the sickest respiratory patients at South Tyneside District Hospital, thanks to a donation of about £4,600 from the hospital’s League of Friends.
The money was used to buy three ‘Airvo’ machines which deliver oxygen via a nasal tube to patients with illnesses that reduce the efficiency of their breathing. Manufacturer Fisher & Paykel generously provided another machine with the purchase, bringing the total on Ward 10 to four.
Ward manager Emma Gray said: “We are extremely grateful to the League of Friends and to Fisher & Paykel. The equipment provides patients with breathing support, airway hydration and supplemental oxygen, all of which contribute to improving their overall comfort.
“Clinical evidence also suggests that because no mask is required, as the oxygen is delivered through a tube in the nose, the use of the machine significantly reduces the risk of pressure damage to the skin and, very importantly, it allows the patient to eat, drink and talk to their families at what can often be a very difficult time.”
The League of Friends was founded in 1948 – the same year as the NHS. Over the years, its volunteers have raised hundreds of thousands of pounds to provide local patients and staff with extra comforts and equipment.
